This weekend, don’t miss the annual Fête des Vendanges (grape harvest festival) in Russin, near Geneva. Over two days, enjoy wine tasting, local food, a grand parade, activities for children, and more!
In size, Russin is small with a population of fewer than 500 people, but last year, the festival attracted a record number of 40,000 people over three days for its 50th edition. My husband and I made a day out of it in Russin last year. Before the parade began, we explored the outdoor market and food/wine stalls around town. There were carnival favorites like bumper cars, plus pony rides, two men handling owls, and a display of antiquated wine-harvesting equipment.
After that, it was time for the grand parade. We were lucky enough to find a place to stand along the route near the bleachers that had been erected for honored guests. We had a great vantage point from which we could see all of the participants in the parade stop to play and perform in front of the group.
Getting there: Russin is a short 13-minute train ride away from Geneva. RER trains will run every 15 minutes during the festival between Geneva’s Cornavin station and Russin.
More information: Visit the festival’s homepage by clicking here
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This is supposed to be one of the best country autumn festivals in the Geneva region. I really need to get there! Thanks for the info.
Hopefully the rain holds off today – the big parade (my favorite part of last year’s festival) is scheduled for 14:00 today. See you there if you’re able to make it!